The Dallas Cowboys nearly always play on Thanksgiving Day, usually in the afternoon NBC window. In the U.S. the Cowboys traditionally appear in the 12:30 p.m. or early afternoon slot on Fox, with occasional 4:05–4:25 p.m. windows in some years when the network holds late windows. In Canada, the game may air on TSN or CTV. Start times can shift by network and year based on scheduling policies, time zone considerations, and doubleheader logistics, so always check the current season’s NFL schedule and local listings to confirm exact time and channel.
How Thanksgiving game time decisions work
The NFL assigns start windows rather than fixed times far in advance; your local Cowboys broadcast follows the network’s slot for that year. The afternoon typically includes an early window around 12:30–1:05 p.m. ET and, in some seasons, a later window near 4:05–4:25 p.m. ET. Kickoff can also be affected by flex scheduling, when marquee matchups move within their window for competitive balance or national appeal. Time zone differences and whether the game appears on broadcast TV or cable further influence what time you’ll see it in your market.
Consistent pattern with variability
Since 1966, the Cowboys have played almost every Thanksgiving, becoming a hallmark of the holiday. The franchise has appeared in both the early and late afternoon windows across that span. When a late-season flex shift or national scheduling adjustment occurs, the time may move within the allowed window; otherwise the Cowboys follow their network’s traditional afternoon block.
Key scheduling variables
- Network slot: Fox typically carries the early window; CBS and NBC hold other marquee slots on different years.
- Doubleheader logistics: Early and late games on the same day can shift kickoff within the window.
- Flex scheduling: Possible in-season move within the assigned window.
- Local listings and time zones: Determines exact local air time and channel.
How to find the exact time each season
Because Cowboys Thanksgiving games follow network-assigned windows, check the official NFL schedule as soon as it releases. Use the same tools you rely on during the regular season: the NFL app, NFL.com, your team’s page on NFL.com, team social channels, and a TV listings service or streaming guide. During complex scheduling years, broadcasters will announce special start-time notices in advance.
Practical steps to lock in the time
- Open the official NFL schedule the day it drops (usually in May).
- Look for Fox, CBS, or NBC Thanksgiving entries and the listed time window.
- Check your local Fox/CBS/NBC affiliate for any pregame or postgame adjustments.
- Confirm streaming availability on the network’s app or your service plan.
- Set a reminder with your local time zone converted so you don’t miss kickoff.
Common broadcast homes for Cowboys Thanksgiving games
In the U.S., Cowboys Thanksgiving appearances most often land on Fox in the early afternoon window. If a later window is used, you might see the game on NBC or CBS depending on that year’s package. In Canada, rights reside with TSN and CTV/Paramount Global outlets, with kickoff aligned to the U.S. feed or adjusted for local timing.
| Year | U.S. network | Time window (ET) | Typical local time example (ET→Central) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Fox | ~12:30–3:25 p.m. | 11:30 a.m.–2:25 p.m. CT |
| 2023 | Fox | ~12:30–3:25 p.m. | 11:30 a.m.–2:25 p.m. CT |
| 2024 | Fox | ~12:30 p.m. | 11:30 a.m. CT |
| Typical pattern | Fox most common | Early afternoon window | Approx. 12:30–1 p.m. local for Central |
Streaming and out-of-market viewing options
When you stream, the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving game usually lives on the Peacock Premium (or NBC Sports Gold) app if it’s on NBC, on the Fox Sports app or your Fox broadcast station app if it’s on Fox, or on the relevant Paramount+/CBS app. NFL+ services and out-of-market NFL+ subscriptions can also provide access to the national broadcast in your region. Confirm blackouts and local restrictions in your area, and make sure your streaming service and login are active before kickoff.
International and alternate feeds
In Canada, TSN typically carries Cowboys Thanksgiving games with a start time aligned to the U.S. east coast feed or adjusted for Eastern Time. If you’re watching from elsewhere, check local sports channels, international streaming services, or NFL Game Pass for availability. Remember that local start times may differ by a few hours depending on the region and broadcaster.
Day-of-game planning checklist
- Check the morning local news and the Fox/CBS/NBC affiliate for any schedule tweaks.
- Refresh the NFL schedule one last time in the app or on NFL.com.
- Test your streaming app and login before kickoff; have a backup method ready.
- Set multiple reminders (phone, smart speaker, calendar) with the correct local time.
- If traveling or hosting, confirm channel lineups and antenna/cable reception early.
Why the Cowboys are a Thanksgiving staple
The Cowboys’ association with Thanksgiving began in the 1960s and reflects both tradition and prominence: consistent winning, national appeal, and a team that plays well in marquee settings. The result is a holiday fixture that fans across the country tune in to watch, making the time-of-day question a reliable annual ritual.
Bottom line
The Dallas Cowboys almost always play on Thanksgiving in the afternoon U.S. window, most commonly around 12:30 p.m. ET on Fox, though the exact time can vary by year and network. Confirm the time each season via the official NFL schedule, local Fox/CBS/NBC listings, and your streaming service to ensure you catch every snap on Thanksgiving Day.